New York Giants

Fearless Forecast

Bucky Brooks

Only injuries and complacency can keep the Giants from making another run at a Super Bowl with a talent-laden roster that is the envy of others. The Giants haven’t handled success well in the past, so it’s hard to imagine them defending their crown in 2012. Prediction: 9-7, second in NFC East

Daniel Jeremiah

The Giants might be the least talked about defending Super Bowl champions in NFL history. Led by Eli Manning on offense and Jason Pierre-Paul on defense, they have all of the necessary pieces to make another push for a title. Prediction: 10-6, first in NFC East

Adam Schein

Tom Coughlin, Eli Manning, a tough-minded approach to the fourth quarter and the big-game experience separate the defending Super Bowl champs from the pack in the division.
Prediction: 10-6, first in NFC East

Steve Wyche

Eli Manning will firmly establish himself as the best quarterback in the division, but defending the Lombardi Trophy could prove too much week-to-week.Prediction: 10-6, second in NFC East

JPP had 16.5 sacks and was an All-Pro while relying largely on freakish athleticism and superb instincts a year ago. He has a better grasp of the mental and physical parts of the game now. Offensive tackles have been warned.

3 Pivotal Games

Week 4 at Eagles

Fantasy owners will love this game and its surplus of playmakers. The Giants' defensive line embraces the challenge of facing Michael Vick and Co. Recent results have been one-sided, though, with the Eagles winning seven of the last eight against the Giants.

Week 8 at Cowboys

Well, we know Jerry Jones has this game circled on his calendar, having invited fans to come "watch us beat the Giants' a--" at Cowboys Stadium. To that, Justin Tuck said, "Talk is cheap. Play the game." This will be a fun one.

Week 12 vs. Packers

The Giants reign supreme when it comes to convincing themselves they are slighted, counted out or decided underdogs. That makes the Packers and Clay Matthews, who said the G-men "didn’t beat" them in the 2011 playoffs, perfectly intriguing opponents.